Quote:
Originally Posted by AtlUmpSteve
ASA defines the infield as the area normally covered by an infielder, and the outfield as the area normally covered by the outfielders. Those definitions keep coed defenses from playing 5 infielders, or 5 outfielders; but they don't reference "the grass".
Do infielders often play on the grass? With a big LH hitter, you can betcha the 2B will be out on the grass. If they played "normal" defense, and a flare was hit to that spot 25' out into the grass, who would you expect to catch it (if it was catchable)?
If your answer is that it would be shortstop's ball, and that an infielder can play in the grass, then you have answered that this is the area normally covered by an infielder. If it is so far out that you judge it would the outfielder's ball to catch, then it is an area normally covered by an outfielder. Can't tell you at what exact distance the field changes, but the umpire has to make that call based on those factors. The ASA definitions are clearly intended to allow judgment as to what is acceptable, and not rely on where the grass starts (if it starts or ends).
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Agree, in principle. However, defensive positioning is usually determined prior to a pitch, not after a ball has been put into play.
My "judgment" is usually based upon the location of the infielders as it relates to their neighbor. If F4 and F3 are both "deep" in the infield or the same with F5 and F6, etc. no problems with the positioning. However, if 3 of the 4 infielders are relatively close to the baseline or any other demarcation you reference and the fourth is obviously not in the same general area as it relates to the rest of the infielders, I'm bringing that player closer to his/her fellow infielders prior to proceeding.
Again, it must be obvious, not "just outside" the relative area.